modernization

American  

[mod-er-nahy-zey-shuhn] / ˌmɒd ər naɪˈzeɪ ʃən /

especially British, modernisation

noun

1. the act or process of making or becoming up-to-date, or the state of being up-to-date or modern.

   Los Angeles is investing billions in the first major modernization at LAX since the 1984 Olympics.

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Other Word Forms

Derived Forms

• remodernization
  noun
• overmodernization
  noun
• antimodernization
  noun

Etymology

Origin of modernization

moderniz(e) ( def. ) + -ation ( def. )

Explanation

Modernization is the process of updating something or making it work in a contemporary setting. The modernization of an office might include new computers, high-speed internet, and a fancy espresso machine. Kitchen modernization usually means new appliances and expensive countertops—the kitchen ends up looking more modern and working in a modern way as well. The modernization of a Shakespeare play, on the other hand, may involve contemporary settings and clothing, or even updating language of the dialogue. Modernization comes via modern, from the Late Latin modernus, "modern," and ultimately the root modo, "just now."

Example Sentences

The text attempts to bypass these criticisms with this language: “None of the funds made available under this section may be used for non-security elements of the East Wing Modernization Project.”

From Slate • May 9, 2026

After months of tense negotiations and protests by the country’s powerful unions, Argentina’s Senate was widely expected to give final approval to Milei’s Labor Modernization Law.

From The Wall Street Journal • Feb. 27, 2026

LAX’s Airfield and Terminal Modernization Program will reconfigure 4.4 miles of road and move cars previously queued along Sepulveda Boulevard onto dedicated, elevated roadways separate from local traffic.

From Los Angeles Times • Jan. 20, 2026

Mueller said a “big spike” in pharmacy closures came after the full implementation of the Medicare Part D in 2006 under the Medicare Modernization Act.

From Seattle Times • Jun. 6, 2024

Reason Two Modernization — if we look at this in another way we see that it is the pursuit of Convenience, Extravagance, and Ease; it signifies the ceaseless advance toward infinite prosperity.

From Down with the Cities by Nakashima, Tadashi